Council launches consultation on budget plans

Birmingham City Council is launching a public consultation into its 2019/20 budget proposals next week.

The council said it has already saved around £690m since 2010 and must now find further savings of £86m over the next four years, including £50m for 2019/20.

“However, most of this has already been consulted on and are ongoing savings, so this specific consultation covers £18m,” the council said.

For seven weeks from November 13 until 31 December, the council will be consulting on how it proposes to make these savings and will be asking people to give their views.

Cllr Ian Ward, leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “This continues to be the most challenging period in Birmingham City Council’s history. Local Government funding has been reducing for over a decade and this has meant changes to many services provided by the public sector, but also an increasing need for communities and others to support where we are no longer able to.

“We know that the decisions we are proposing will affect the lives of many people across the city which is why it is so important for us to hear from you, and that you take the time to engage with us.

“We want to work with you to help us make these difficult but important decisions. Last year’s budget was shaped by your feedback and we will of course listen to you again this year.

“While we do have some fantastic opportunities ahead of us, including the 2022 Commonwealth Games and the significant economic boost that will bring to the city, we are not shying away from the challenges we currently face and that’s why we need as many people as possible to have their say on these budget proposals.”